Take a Dip in Paradise Cove

Just outside of Cripple Creek, this is short 1/2 mile hike leads to a secluded swimming hole surrounded by granite rocks, called Paradise Cove. There are 3 different levels you can jump from into a small deep pool fed by a waterfall.

From Colorado Springs, follow RT 24 to the town of Florissant (34.5 miles). From Florissant, follow Teller County Road 1 south for about 9.2 miles, until a Y fork, and bear right, into County Road 11. Follow County Road 11 for 4.1 miles, until a T intersection, and make a right turn at the intersection, into County Road 112. Follow County Road 112 for 2.7 miles, and where the road crests on top of a hill, park in the gravel lot on the left. On foot, cross the road and follow a foot trail in direction North for about 0.4 miles to the swimming hole.

Please note that Guffey Gorge (Paradise Cove) now has a $6 per vehicle day use fee.

Additional new rules: no alcohol, no amplified music, and dogs must be on a leash or attached to a fixed object. These are on top of our old rules: no overnight camping, no target shooting, no glass, and no campfires or open flames.

Community Photos

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Reviews

This an awesome place to cliff jump, even if you're a beginner. I had never jumped off a cliff before but felt safe since the water was deep. I did see one person slip off the cliff right next to the waterfall, but they were ok. The water here is FREEZING, even in August, so don't plan to come here to swim leisurely because you'll want to get out of the water as soon as you get in. The hike was easy but make sure you have shoes with good traction because there are lots of loose rocks to climb down.